All Purdue Online DegreesWhy Study Elementary Education – Reading at PNW?
Elementary Education at PNW is an experiential program that prepares you for licensure in grades K-6. You will be immersed in field experiences with our partner school districts, allowing you to work with varying age levels and build a network across Northwest Indiana. You will also gain valuable experience using best practices teaching children with diverse needs.
Featured Faculty
Dr. Patrick Keegan Associate Professor Education
pjkeegan@pnw.edu
Dr. Patrick Keegan is an assistant professor of education in the School of Education and Counseling. Dr. Keegan teaches courses in elementary social studies methods. He conducts research on youth civic engagement with racially, ethnically and linguistically diverse students, and elementary social studies teachers’ conceptions of citizenship. His publications appear in Theory and Research in Social Education, The High School Journal, and The Urban Review. Prior to coming to Purdue Northwest, he was a visiting assistant professor at New York University where he directed a teacher residency program in the City School District of Albany, NY. In his free time, he enjoys cross country skiing, running, hiking, and generally spending time outdoors.
School of Education
and Counseling ➤
The Honors College ➤
Career Paths
- Elementary Teacher (K-6)
- School Counselor (requires Master’s)
- Principal (requires Master’s)
Accreditations
- CAEP accredited
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Alumni Profile
Ever since her 4th grade instructor, Joe Burger, at Hobart’s Liberty Elementary School referred to her as “Rainbow Maker”, Caylee Stahl has looked forward to becoming an elementary teacher. As for her decision to attend PNW, it was pretty much a no-brainer. “My mom and sister are graduates, and I wanted to stay close to home,” Caylee said. “Plus, I knew the teacher education program is strong.” She now teaches 5th grade in her hometown of Hobart.
Where do our alums work?
- School City of Hobart
- Chicago Public Schools
- Valparaiso Community Schools
- School City of Hammond
- Merrillville Community School Corporation
- La Porte Community School Corporation
- Portage Township Schools
- Lake Central School Corporation
- Michigan City Area Schools
- Griffith Public Schools
Admissions Requirements
- Applicants to the Early Education program must have:
- A 2.5 GPA and 2.8 Professional GPA
- Required to pass the CASA assessments (or meet an approved alternative) measuring proficiency in basic academic skills.
Scholarships
Elementary Education students have scholarship opportunities through Financial Aid and the School of Education and Counseling. Find scholarship details here.
Additionally, candidates may apply through various professional organizations for scholarships (e.g., Indiana State Teachers Association, Phi Delta Kappa, etc.) or grants (e.g., USAGrantApplications.org).
